Ronaldo scores brace as Madrid giants beat Athletic 4-2

Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates scoring a goal against Athletic Bilbao in their La Liga match at Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid on Saturday. Real won 4-2. — AP

Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice as Real Madrid overcame a stiff test from Athletic Bilbao to move within a point of Barcelona at the top of La Liga with a 4-2 win on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Gary Neville registered his first La Liga win as Valencia boss at the 10th attempt as they came from behind to beat Espanyol 2-1.

Ronaldo’s early opener was cancelled out by Javi Eraso before a two-goal burst just before half-time from James Rodriguez and Toni Kroos put Madrid in control.

Real were reduced to 10 men late on as Raphael Varane received a red card, but Ronaldo made sure of the points before Gorka Elustondo grabbed a consolation in stoppage time.

Barca have two games in hand on Madrid and face Celta Vigo in the first of those on Sunday.

Ronaldo had been much criticised for his poor performance as Madrid struggled past Granada last weekend.

Yet, back on home soil, he was back on top form as he turned inside from Karim Benzema’s pass and smashed home his 31st goal of the season.

“The press are here to opine on whether Ronaldo plays well or badly, if he is finished, but today he has showed he is bloody brilliant,” added Zidane.

Valencia’s first league win since November eases their relegation fears and the growing pressure on Neville’s job.

“I’m happy with it, but it’s just one small step forward. There is a big job still to do,” said Neville.

“Relief is probably a good word (to describe it).”

The former Manchester United captain made the bold decision to recall goalkeeper Diego Alves for the first time in nine months after suffering cruciate ligament damage.

That decision paid dividends early on as the Brazilian made a brilliant reaction save to deny Felipe Caicedo before Mamadou Sylla inexplicably headed the rebound wide. Alves was caught flatfooted for the opening goal as Oscar Duarte flew in unmarked to head home Burgui’s corner.